Gateron Ink Yellow vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the PH Studio Jacaranda. The Ink Yellow is praised for its shorter travel distance, offering a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. With a smooth and clacky feel, it is a neutral switch that provides a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda linear switch by KTT stands out for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers for fatigue-free typing. Known for its clacky sound signature and unique extended 22mm spring, the Jacaranda offers a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, elevating the overall typing experience. While both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Jacaranda utilizes polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile for the top housing and a deeper, fuller sound profile for the bottom housing. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the use of different materials in each housing creates distinct typing experiences for users.
Aesthetically speaking, the use of polycarbonate in the Jacaranda's housing allows for a clear housing that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ink Yellow's INK blend housing does not offer the same level of translucency, which may be a consideration for users who prioritize RGB customization in their setups. However, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Ink Yellow providing a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the Jacaranda offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow and the PH Studio Jacaranda ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. While the Ink Yellow boasts a proprietary blend top and bottom housing for a distinct clacky sound, the Jacaranda features a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings for a sharper and fuller sound experience. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, with the top and bottom housings playing a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile of each keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that they offer different weight options for users. The Gateron Ink Yellow has a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda offers a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more suitable option for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. In this case, the Jacaranda is the lighter option, while the Ink Yellow is the heavier choice. By choosing one over the other, users can tailor their typing experience to their specific preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that the typing experience will be very similar in terms of the tactile feedback and keypress depth. As a result, users can expect comparable performance and feel when typing on keyboards with either the Gateron Ink Yellow or PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches both fall under the clacky category, producing sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. While the Ink Yellow is noted for its neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of uses, the Jacaranda offers a higher-pitched and resonant sound, providing an immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and smooth finish that appeals to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda boasts a silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Each switch provides a unique tactile sensation that contributes to the overall typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While their sound profiles share similarities in being clacky, their differences lie in the specific nuances of the sound produced. Similarly, their tactile feel varies from a polished and mild experience in the Ink Yellow to a silky smooth sensation in the Jacaranda. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, as both switches offer high-quality performance in their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Ink Yellow may be the better option for you. However, if you lean towards a lighter bottom out force, a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, and crave a uniquely bouncy typing sensation with a silky smooth feel, then the Jacaranda could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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